Lowland Fen Grade 3 Agricultural land

[Newby19]

Hi all

just looking for some advice I have land that is classed as above grade 3 but natural England have noted it as lowland Fen ?

I want to plant some of my acres for vegetable planting ? Can I plough the grazing land ?

I own It but worried I am not aloud to plough it …..

 

[Pieces_of_Eight]

How long has it been grass?

 

[Newby19]

Forever apparently

To confirm it’s priority habitat flood plane grazing marsh

A proper tongue twister

 

[farmerm]

Forever apparently

To confirm it’s priority habitat flood plane grazing marsh

A proper tongue twister

How much do you want to plant and who can see it?

 

[Brisel]

It's possible you might need to carry out an Environmental Impact Assessment if it hasn't been "improved" by sprays, fertiliser or reseeding.

I do wonder why this hasn't been done before? How often does it flood? Have you had soil samples analysed?

 

[Newby19]

It floods every year for 3-4 weeks

Its around 9 Hectares, I believe you can plough etc up to 2 hectares without EIA submission I believe, if this is the case I think this will be plenty for me

I do have soil samples ? Would this show something ?

 

[Forkdriver]

It sounds like you are one step away from SSSI status.

 

[Brisel]

I do have soil samples ? Would this show somesomething

pH, nutrient status. The usual.

 

[Hindsight]

Forever apparently

To confirm it’s priority habitat flood plane grazing marsh

A proper tongue twister

Is the land recorded on the Priority Habitats Inventory?

 

[Newby19]

 

[Newby19]

Is the land recorded on the Priority Habitats Inventory?

It’s on the magic Defra as priority habitat

 

[Hindsight]

It’s on the magic Defra as priority habitat

I thought that might be the case. In addition to sounding out views on TFF, I suggest you seek out some proper advice on the ramifications of that designation. And if looking for income against the land the Stewardship etc options. Best wishes.